Overview

Having diabetic kidney disease (diabetic nephropathy) means that for some time you have had high blood sugar, which damages the kidneys. This may have taken you by surprise. Damage to kidneys usually doesn't cause symptoms early on.

Kidneys keep protein in your blood. They also help filter waste from your blood. If your kidneys are damaged by high blood sugar, protein can pass into your urine. And your kidneys can't filter waste as they should. Sometimes this condition can lead to kidney failure.

Your doctor will tell you how you might be able to slow damage to your kidneys. In many cases, prompt and regular treatment can prevent kidney failure. You will need to take medicine. You may need to make changes in your normal routines. To help reduce your chance of kidney failure, keep your blood sugar and blood pressure in your target range. And be sure to take your medicines as prescribed.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. It is very important that you take your insulin or other diabetes medicine as your doctor tells you. Call your doctor or nurse advice line if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.
• Try to keep your blood sugar in your target range.
  • Eat a variety of healthy foods and follow your meal plan to know how much carbohydrate you need for meals and snacks. Your doctor may restrict your protein. A dietitian can help you plan meals.
  • If your doctor recommends it, get more exercise. For many people, walking is a good choice. Bit by bit, increase the amount you exercise every day. Try for at least 2½ hours a week.
  • Check your blood sugar as often as your doctor recommends.
• Take and record your blood pressure at home if your doctor tells you to. To take your blood pressure at home:
  • Ask your doctor to check your blood pressure monitor. Your doctor can make sure that it is accurate and that the cuff fits you. Also ask your doctor to watch you to make sure that you are using it right.
  • Do not use tobacco products or use medicine known to raise blood pressure (such as some nasal decongestant sprays) before taking your blood pressure.
  • Avoid taking your blood pressure if you have just exercised or are nervous or upset. Rest at least 15 minutes before taking a reading.
• Eat a low-salt diet to keep your blood pressure in your target range.
• If you smoke, quit or cut back as much as you can. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about stop-smoking programs and medicines. These can increase your chances of quitting for good.
• Do not take ibuprofen, naproxen, or similar medicines, unless your doctor tells you to. These medicines may make kidney problems worse.